New posts at LynnRMitchell.com ... come check us out!

It's been a busy morning at LynnRMitchell.com as contributors have published posts that we hope you will find informative and entertaining. Here's a sampling:

- Coming soon: Red vs Blu: Kurt Michael brings his new comic strip Red vs Blu to the blog. The characters are a take-off of the classic 1961 comic strip in Mad Magazine, Spy vs Spy: “The comic strip always featured two spies who are completely identical save for the fact that one is dressed in white and the other black. The pair are constantly warring with each other, using a variety of booby-traps to inflict harm on the other. The spies usually alternate between victory and defeat with each new strip.” Red vs Blu follows the same genre. Stay tuned as we prepare to follow their adventures.

- Andrea Oakes: Staunton's Best Buy celebrates 20 years in business: City Councilwoman Oakes recently joined Congressman Bob Goodlatte as they attended Best Buy Distribution Center's recognition of their 20 years as an employer in the city.

- David Karaffa: Augusta County supervisors will begin staggered terms: Supervisor Karaffa explains how staggered terms will work beginning in 2015.

- Eric Cantor: U.S. House schedule for April 30, 2014: What's going on in Congress today? Here's the schedule for the House of Representatives.

Pop on over and check out these and more as the day goes on. We've got the coffee pot brewing and keyboards are clicking ... stop by and sit a spell at LynnRMitchell.com.

Roger Jarrell elected Rockbridge Republican chairman

 Roger Jarrell II with son Trey, 17, driver with Trey Jarrell Racing

Well over a hundred people turned out Monday night at the Virginia Horse Center in Lexington where Roger Jarrell II won the chairman's race for the Rockbridge area Republican Committee, defeating incumbent chairman Cher McCoy 94-34. Three candidates had vied for the position but Al Tucker dropped out prior to the meeting.

Rockbridge Republican Committee is part of the 6th Congressional District that is represented by Congressman Bob Goodlatte.

Jarrell, a Lexington native who attended local schools, is well known in the area and had won support from residents and the business community. After graduating from Lexington High School and Virginia Military Institute, he went on to earn his law degree at Washington and Lee University and now is in private practice. His involvement in politics began 20 years ago when he worked on Goodlatte's campaign for Congress as well as campaigns for Oliver North and John Warner.

Jarrell is an adviser with his son Trey who is a NASCAR driver for Trey Jarrell Racing Team.

Attending Monday night's meeting were  Delegate Ben Cline who drove back from Richmond's special session on Monday to give a General Assembly update before returning for Tuesday's session, as well as incumbent Wendell Walker and challenger Vance Wilkins who are candidates for 6th Congressional District Chairman at the convention to be held April 26 in Daleville.

U.S. House schedule for Tuesday, February 25, 2014

From House Leader Eric Cantor's office....

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 25TH
On Tuesday, the House will meet at noon for morning hour and 2:00 p.m. for legislative business.
Votes will be postponed until 6:30 p.m.

One Minute Speeches

Legislation Considered Under Suspension of the Rules:

1) H.R. 1211 - FOIA Oversight and Implementation Act of 2014, as amended (Sponsored by Rep. Darrell Issa / Oversight and Government Reform Committee) 

2) H.R. 1232 - The Federal Information Technology Acquisition Reform Act, as amended (Sponsored by Rep. Darrell Issa / Oversight and Government Reform Committee)

3) H.R. 1423 - Taxpayers Right-to-Know Act, as amended (Sponsored by Rep. James Lankford / Oversight and Government Reform Committee)

4) H.R. 1123 - Unlocking Consumer Choice and Wireless Competition Act, as amended (Sponsored by Rep. Bob Goodlatte / Judiciary Committee)

5) H.R. 1944 - Private Property Rights Protection Act (Sponsored by Rep. James Sensenbrenner / Judiciary Committee)

6) H.R. 2530 - Taxpayer Transparency and Efficient Audit Act, as amended (Sponsored by Rep. Peter Roskam / Ways and Means Committee) 

7) H.R. 2531 - Protecting Taxpayers from Intrusive IRS Requests Act (Sponsored by Rep. Peter Roskam / Ways and Means Committee)

Special Order Speeches

COMMITTEE ACTIVITY OF THE DAY
Rules Committee meeting on “H.R. 2804, All Economic Regulations are Transparent Act and H.R. 3865, Stop Targeting of Political Beliefs by the IRS Act of 2014”
(Tuesday, February 25th, at 5:00 p.m.)

Printable PDF

Former Speaker of the House Vance Wilkins makes a run for 6th Congressional District Chairman

Former Speaker of the House Vance Wilkins and his wife at
October 2010 Tea Party Convention in Richmond. (Photo by Lynn R. Mitchell)

In a battle that's shaping up for 6th Congressional District chairman, former Virginia House Speaker and delegate Vance Wilkins is challenging the incumbent chairman, Wendell Walker.

Vance Wilkins was Republican Speaker of the House -- an historic first in the Commonwealth -- for a little over two years before resigning in 2002 after allegations of misconduct. While serving as delegate from 1978-2002, he was instrumental in helping build the Republican Party into a majority that loosened the Commonwealth from its long-time Democratic grip.

Vance Wilkins' reemergence on the political landscape could be seen in 2007 when he was adviser to a candidate who unsuccessfully ran against Augusta County's State Senator Emmett Hanger (R-24th). Since that time, Wilkins has been seen working Republican events, most recently at the Republican Advance in December, and has been a moving force recruiting current chairmen throughout the 6th. Known in the past as conservative, he has in recent years lined up with the tea party wing of RPV.

Wendell Walker, who has served as chair in Congressman Bob Goodlatte's district the past three years, may have cause to be concerned. It's obvious Wilkins is putting his trademark tenacity to work as he pulls out the call lists of leaders and former leaders in the Sixth and works the phone to gain support. His hard work is legendary from the 1980s and '90s when he recruited and campaigned for Republican delegates, bringing a majority to the House. There's been no word yet from anyone who has received a phone call from Walker but he surely must be working his lists, too, in this battle that will culminate at the 6th District Convention on April 26th.

Anyone interested in attending the 6th Congressional District Convention will be required to attend their local committee mass meeting to become a delegate. Information for all committees can be found at the Republican Party of Virginia website. The Augusta County Mass Meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 5, 2014, at 6:30 pm at the Augusta County Government Center in Verona.

[Update: Word was received after this post was published that confirmed Walker has been contacting convention delegates and making the rounds of meetings in the 6th District.]

Goodlatte townhall: The question that didn't get asked

Monday's townhall meeting in Augusta County with Congressman Bob Goodlatte (R-6th CD) was chocked full of people who are upset about Obamacare and want to see Ted Cruz, Rand Paul, and others shut down the U.S. government in their pursuit of shutting down Obamacare.

So it was a surprise that this one question was not asked by anyone in the crowd of about 150 people: Why was Congress exempted from the Obamacare legislation that the rest of us have to abide by?

Staunton Councilman Bruce Elder seeks Democratic nomination to challenge Rep. Bob Goodlatte

The rumors have been circulating for a while but they are now official: Bruce Elder will run for the Democratic nomination to challenge Republican Congressman Bob Goodlatte in the 6th Congressional District.

Elder, who in his second term as a member of Staunton City Council, has set up a Facebook page and a website.

The election is November 2014.

April 28 ... SWAC Political Breakfast with Congressman Bob Goodlatte

We will continue the 6th District Congressional Candidate Series this month by hearing from Congressman Bob Goodlatte on Saturday, April 28. Bring your questions and come hear Rep. Goodlatte's vision for the future of the 6th District.

In February we heard from Congressional candidate Karen Kwiatkowski (R) and in March we heard from Congressional candidate Andy Schmookler (D).

Speaker: Congressman Bob Goodlatte

Date:  Saturday, April 28, 2012

Time:  8:30 a.m.

Place:  Golden Corral

Location: 51 Apple Tree Lane, Waynesboro, VA 22980 (I-64, Exit 94)

Dutch-treat: Buffet breakfast $10.25 includes coffee & juice 

About Our Guest Speaker
Source: www.BobGoodlatte.com

Bob Goodlatte came to the United States House of Representatives in 1993, bringing with him valuable knowledge and working experience of one of the largest and most diverse Congressional Districts in Virginia.

Bob's service to the Sixth District began in 1977, when he became District Director for former Congressman M. Caldwell Butler. In that position, he was responsible for providing assistance to citizens as related to solving issues with various federal agencies. In 1979, he founded a private law practice; and later became a partner in the law firm of Bird, Kinder and Huffman, working there from 1981, until his election to Congress.

While in Congress, his leadership abilities earned him a seat on the House Judiciary Committee, where he currently serves as the Vice Ranking Member. He also serves on the Courts and Competition Policy Subcommittee and the Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security Subcommittee. Bob's work on the Judiciary Committee aids many of his legislative priorities including ending the Immigration Visa Lottery, cracking down on spammers, curbing illegal Internet gambling, stemming the abuse of frivolous class action lawsuits, and reducing wasteful government spending by requiring a federal Balanced Budget Amendment.

In 2003, Bob was named Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, the first from Virginia since 1947. In that role he promoted healthy forest initiatives, and worked to provide programs to rural Americans who are in need of a stable farm economy, while providing for the safest, most abundant and affordable food supply in the world. He now serves as the Ranking Member on the Subcommittee on Conservation, Credit, Energy and Research.

Bob serves as Chairman of the House Republican High Technology Working Group; Co-Chair of the Congressional Internet Caucus; and is a member of the Republican Policy Committee.

Bob, 57, is a graduate of Washington and Lee University School of Law, and his undergraduate degree in Government was earned at Bates College in Lewiston, Maine. Bob and Maryellen have been married for 34 years, live in Roanoke, and have two children, Jennifer and Rob.

About SWAC Political Breakfast:
SWAC Political Breakfast is fashioned after the popular “town hall meeting” venue. It is non-partisan and open to everybody in the community. SWAC Breakfast does not promote or endorse any particular party and/or point of view. It serves as a social forum for politically-minded people who like to share and discuss ideas with their neighbors. It also allows citizens an opportunity to hear from public figures, elected officials, and candidates running for public office. SWAC Political Breakfast is held at various locations throughout the community.

Karen Kwiatkowski to take on Goodlatte for 6th District congressional seat

Standing on the steps of the Augusta County Courthouse Thursday in downtown Staunton, against a noisy background of mid-day traffic with two of her four children and several other supporters holding campaign signs,  Karen Kwiatkowski formally announced her candidacy for U.S. Congress.

With a campaign slogan to "Reduce, Redirect, and Rein-In" the federal government and hoping for a series of debates, the Shenandoah County resident is running as a Republican and will seek the GOP nomination in 2012 against long-time incumbent Republican Congressman Bob Goodlatte, 58. It will be the first time Goodlatte has been challenged from within the party since taking office in 1992.

Another Shenandoah County resident, Democrat Andrew Schmookler, announced earlier this year that he planned to run for the seat.

Kwiatkowski, 50, is a retired Lieutenant Colonel who spent 20 years in the United States Air Force who was at her desk in the Pentagon when the terrorist attack took place on 9/11. Self-described as a Shenandoah Valley farmer, military veteran, parent, grandparent, and teacher, she has extensive and varied background in academia and writing.

A Ron Paul supporter, she called herself a "conservative constitutionalist from the liberty wing of the GOP,"  and added, "Certain parts of the GOP talk the talk but don't walk the walk."

She has co-authored a book about Ron Paul and counts his backers among her supporters. Indeed, she was even been mentioned as a possible vice presidential candidate for Ron Paul's presidential run.

Her educational background includes an MA in Government from Harvard, an MS in Science Management from the University of Alaska, completed both Air Command and Staff College and the Naval War College seminar programs, and has a Ph.D. in world politics from Catholic University of America.

Kwiatkowski is critical of Goodlatte, claiming he appears to have lost his conservative roots and bends to the will of party bosses. She did not support his vote for the "fear-driven Patriot Act, violating the Constitution, growing government, and reducing liberty," noting she would fight to repeal it to restore "common sense, Constitutionality, and liberty."

Goodlatte, she said, had pursued a twenty-year career as a member of Congress despite promises to limit his terms. If elected, she would seek to reduce Congressional salaries, end the Congressional retirement program, and demand that Congressmen purchase their own private health insurance.

On defense, she objected to Goodlatte's vote for what she described as the occupations of Iraq and Afghanistan and the attacks on Libya, and viewed much of the US. overseas military budget as wasteful and at times, unlawful. She was also critical of his votes over the years to raise the federal government's borrowing limit "in direct defiance of Virginia's lawsuit against it."

The 6th District nomination will take place next year in a primary or convention. "I must gain the confidence of the people of the 6th District, and I must also gain the confidence of the Republican establishment in the 6th District," she noted. "We have been to many parts of the District in the past few months, talking to people who grew up here, who live here, who work here and who have retired here. What we are hearing is that they are sick of status quo politics. There is a sense that we are being governed by politicians who do not care what we know, what we want, and what we can afford."

More coverage of this event can be found at the Waynesboro News Virginian, Staunton News Leader, and NBC-29.

Karen Kwiatkowski announces bid for U.S. Congress at Augusta County Courthouse.

Karen Kwiatkowski

Cross-posted at Bearing Drift

Photos by Lynn R. Mitchell
18 August 2011

George Allen endorsed by Majority Leader Eric Cantor, Goodlatte, Griffith

U.S. Senate GOP candidate George Allen received the endorsement today from Republican Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-7th CD) in his bid to become the Republican candidate to face Democrat Tim Kaine in November 2012.

Allen also received the endorsements of Congressman Bob Goodlatte (R-6th CD) and freshman Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-9th CD). They released a joint statement:

"Virginians have watched as Washington has become an obstacle to economic growth and job creation.  Unemployment remains far too high, families have seen no relief at the gas pump and Washington’s overregulation continues to hurt Virginia’s small businesses.  House Republicans have worked hard to pass pro-growth policies, while the Senate Democrats have fought our agenda every step of the way.

"Virginians are going to play a crucial role in determining the control of the U.S. Senate and the direction of our country.  In order for America to lead once again we need like-minded partners like George Allen in the U.S. Senate.  Our country can’t afford to allow the Senate Democrats to continue to block the policies that will allow businesses to expand and create more jobs for Americans.

"George Allen has a long track record of success implementing small government reforms that grow the economy and create jobs.  He has been a longtime supporter of a Balanced Budget Amendment, introducing it in the House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate. As Governor, he reduced the tax burden on Virginia families and businesses, fostered a pro-growth environment that helped create jobs, and left Virginia with a smaller, leaner government.

"The hard working men and women of Virginia deserve a Senator who will fight for their values every day in Washington, not the failed policies of the Obama Administration.  We are proud to stand with a great Virginia leader, George Allen, and we strongly support his campaign for U.S. Senate."

Releasing a statement of gratitude, the former Virginia Governor and U.S. Senator commented on the endorsements:

“Majority Leader Cantor, Congressman Griffith and Congressman Goodlatte will be strong, positive voices for our campaign.  I am proud and grateful to have these exceptional Virginia leaders on our A-Team as we continue to build a strong grassroots team all across the state.

“Throughout this campaign I have listened to the heartfelt concerns of families and businesses who have become pessimistic about our economy and the direction of our country.  I believe we can restore the promise of the American Dream by reinvigorating the entrepreneurial spirit with pro-growth policies to unleash our energy resources and help create hundreds of thousands of jobs.

“Majority Leader Cantor and Congressmen Griffith and Goodlatte are fighting hard in Washington to stop the Senate Democrats’ job-crushing, big-spending agenda.  By taking control of the U.S. Senate away from Harry Reid, we can finally start acting on the efforts by Leader Cantor and other Republicans in the House of Representatives to help create jobs and restore fiscal responsibility.  I am excited that these leaders will be standing alongside us in our mission to bring Virginia voices to the U.S. Senate.”

These are the latest endorsements for Allen as he continues to campaign, crisscrossing the Commonwealth of Virginia and listening to concerns from citizens. Earlier he had received the backing of Lt. Governor Bill Bolling.

Congress must demand accountability on U.S. action in Libya

By Congressman Bob Goodlatte
Republican - 6th Congressional District (VA)

Nearly three months ago U.S. forces, at the command of President Obama and without the consent of the U.S. Congress, began attacking targets in Libya controlled by Moammar Gaddafi. I think most Americans, including myself, agree that seeing this tyrannical dictator and his regime of thugs removed from power would be a good thing. However, I think most Americans, including myself, also feel strongly that American forces should not be committed to this kind of mission without the consent of the U.S. Congress.

President Obama cites the War Powers Resolution of 1973 as giving him the authority to commit U.S. forces to the mission in Libya. However, the War Powers Resolution clearly states that the President's powers as Commander-in-Chief to introduce U.S. forces into hostilities can be exercised only when a declaration of war has been issued, specific statutory authorization has been given or in the event of a national emergency created by an attack on the United States or its forces. The President has failed to define the mission in Libya and America's role in achieving that mission before committing our military forces.

I have been alarmed by the President’s failure to comply with the War Powers Act and to define the U.S. mission in Libya. This Congress must not neglect its responsibility and authority regarding the use of force, and so I am pleased that days ago this important issue was finally debated on the floor of the House.

I voted for the bipartisan resolution which demands that the President provide answers about our involvement in the conflict in Libya, including the President’s justification for not seeking Congressional authorization for this action. The resolution gives the President 14 days to respond to this request.

The President should take very seriously this resolution. And our leadership in Congress should be vigilant to demand a full and clear response from the President. This resolution also gives adequate notice to NATO and our other allies of the concerns of the House before the House takes further action and reaffirms the position of the House that there should be no troops on the ground in Libya.

House-passage of this resolution is an important first step in restoring the balance that our Founding Fathers envisioned, that our legislative and executive branches share the responsibility regarding the use of U.S. force. However, this recent action taken by the House of Representatives should not be the last step. In the coming days, the House must continue to hold the Administration accountable for the critical military decisions they made without consent from the Congress.

To contact me about this or any other matter, please visit my website at www.goodlatte.house.gov.

Goodlatte (R-6th CD) to host job fair in Roanoke

Fifty businesses have already signed up to participate in Congressman Bob Goodlatte's (R-6th CD) Job Fair on Thursday, May 19, from 9:00 am - 2:00 pm at the Roanoke Civic Center. There is still room for other businesses who would like to participate. Contact the Congressman's Roanoke office at 540-857-2672.

The Civic Center is located off Williamson Road and State Rt. 460 in Roanoke. Parking will be available. Local businesses and corporations will be on hand to meet with job seekers. No registration is necessary.

The businesses participating so far are:

Universal American
Liberty Medical Supply
National College
Averett University
Rennick Group
AXA Advisors
Roanoke Higher Education
NY Life
Microscope store
101.5 The Music Place
MBC Adult Degree Program
Roanoke City Adult Education
Best Buy
Mary Kay
Aerotek Inc
Carilion
E-911 Center

Cross-posted at Bearing Drift
City of Roanoke HR
Waffle House
Sendoutcards.com
Express Employment Professionals
Miller-Mont
Roanoke Small Business Development Center
Advance Auto Distribution
Goodwill Industries of the Valley
Virginia Tech
Salem VAMC
Western VA Workforce Development Board
C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc.
Western Regional Jail
Roanoke County Police Department
Medical Facilities of America
Footlevers
ITT-Tech
Dynax
Optical Cable Corporation
The Homestead
Richfields Retirement Community
Gala Industries
Bright Services
Centra Health
Salem Police Department
AARP
Arkay Packaging
Kelley Services
Pixeloptics
Roanoke Valley Workforce Center
Virginia Western Community College
Maple Leaf Bakery
Colonial Life

Cross-posted at Bearing Drift

Goodlatte reintroduces legislation to open Va's OCS for oil and gas exploration

On Tuesday Representatives Bob Goodlatte reintroduced the “Virginia Access to Energy Act.” This important legislation allows for the exploration of natural gas and crude oil in Virginia’s waters of the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS). The legislation requires the Department of Interior, at the request of Virginia’s governor, to proceed with the Virginia lease sale no later than one year after passage of this legislation.

For many years the Commonwealth of Virginia has seriously been considering the potential positive impact that OCS development off Virginia’s coast would have on the Commonwealth. In fact, there has been wide support for environmentally responsible energy production by the Governor of Virginia, the Virginia General Assembly and by many local governments in the Commonwealth.

“Every day, folks across Virginia and the nation are confronted with the rising cost of energy, from the cost at the pump to soaring electric bills,” said Congressman Goodlatte. “I believe that Virginia should have every tool available to access its energy supplies. The ‘Virginia Access to Energy Act’ will create a path for Virginia to become ‘the Energy Capital of the East Coast.’”

It has been estimated by the U.S. Department of Interior’s Minerals Management Service that Virginia’s OCS has 130 million barrels of recoverable oil and 1.14 trillion cubic feet of recoverable natural gas. This translates into a significant boost to the economy of the Commonwealth of Virginia. In fact, some estimates have shown that development of Virginia’s OCS will create over 2,500 full-time equivalent positions on an annual basis, induce capital investment of $7.8 billion, yield nearly $645 million in direct and indirect payroll, and result in over $270 million in state and local taxes.

“There is a clear link between our willingness to tap American energy resources with job creation and national security,” said Congressman Scott Rigell, a lead cosponsor of the Virginia Access to Energy Act. “It is essential that we move forward with a comprehensive strategy that provides energy independence and I commend Congressman Goodlatte for introducing this legislation.”

The “Virginia Access to Energy Act” authorizes that all revenue generated from extraction of these resources may be shared evenly with the state and federal government, with the federal share going to reduce to the national debt. The Commonwealth’s share will be used to fund various state projects at the discretion of the state government.


Representatives Rob Wittman (VA-1), Scott Rigell (VA-2), Randy Forbes (VA-4), Robert Hurt (VA-5), Morgan Griffith (VA-9), and Frank Wolf (VA-10) joined Rep. Goodlatte as original cosponsors of the legislation, which has been referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources for further consideration.

Goodlatte continued, “Virginians understand that a major component in lessening energy costs is to produce more energy. In addition to helping us become energy independent, this legislation will help create thousands of jobs for Virginians and infuse the Commonwealth with new capital growth.”

To move America toward energy independence we need a comprehensive and strategic plan that increases the supply, security and diversity of American energy, promotes conservation and puts real alternative fuel sources in the hands of consumers to lower costs. We must lift the moratorium on drilling along the Outer Continental Shelf and open the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge for drilling, potentially producing nearly a million barrels of oil a day. We must diversify our energy supplies with alternative sources, including renewable fuels and wind, solar and hydrogen power. But we must do so without the government mandates and subsidies that are today driving up the cost of food and animal feed due to producing ethanol from corn. We should develop a renewable policy where the government incentivizes the development of new technologies but does not mandate the use of any particular fuel like corn-based ethanol which drives up food costs for consumers. Finally we should encourage the production of more nuclear power which provides CO2 emission-free energy.

The Senate must act to cut spending

By Congressman Bob Goodlatte
R-6th Congressional District
April 1, 2011

It’s been over forty days since the House of Representatives took a major step in getting Washington’s fiscal house back in order by passing H.R. 1, a bill which is $61 billion below last year’s spending level and $100 billion below the President’s request this year. This legislation, which passed with my strong support, is needed to continue operation of the federal government through the end of this fiscal year. The continuing resolution reflects Washington’s need to make tough decisions about spending priorities, cutting wasteful programs, and respecting taxpayers’ wallets. However, the U.S. Senate has failed to act on this or any other legislation which makes significant cuts to the out-of-control government spending.

The cuts contained in the House-passed long term Continuing Resolution represent tough choices, but we must take these necessary actions in order to protect the future of our country. Many federal programs have received funding increases over the last several years that outpaced both inflation and the growth of the American family budget. A thorough and careful review of all our federal agencies and programs must be done to root out any waste, fraud and abuse. We made a good start on that process with this bill and now the Senate must complete their work. It’s time for Washington to stop spending money we don’t have.

In an attempt to spur the Senate to finally pass a bill funding the government for the rest of the year, the House passed with my strong support, the Government Shutdown Prevention Act. We are hopeful that this proposal will urge the Senate to act instead of playing politics with a shutdown. Additionally, the Government Shutdown Prevention Act provides that, in the event of a government shutdown that lasts longer than 24 hours or the limitation on the debt of the United States being reached, Members of both the House and Senate and the President will not receive paychecks for as long as the condition persists.

It is essential that the federal government work to both eliminate every cent of waste and squeeze every cent of value out of each dollar our citizens entrust to it. I have consistently supported measures to rein in the federal budget and curb spending by voting for the tightest budgets and spending bills possible. I will continue working hard to bring fiscal responsibility back to Washington by supporting the largest possible spending cuts and I call on the members of the Senate to do the same. Ultimately, we must make the tough decisions necessary to balance our budget and pass a balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution, helping to assure that future governments live within their means.

To contact me about this or any other matter, please visit my website at www.goodlatte.house.gov.

Rep. Goodlatte to lead historic reading of U.S. Constitution on House floor

From the office of Rep. Bob Goodlatte (R-VA 6)....

Washington, D.C.: Last week, at the urging of Congressman Bob Goodlatte, the House Republican Leadership released House Rules for the 112th Congress that recommit the Congress to the text of the U.S. Constitution. As proof of this commitment to hold true to the fundamental principles upon which this country was founded, the new Rules for the 112th Congress include Congressman Goodlatte's recommendation that the U.S. Constitution will be read aloud on the House Floor during the first week of the 112th Congress.

Congressman Goodlatte will lead the reading of the U.S. Constitution, which will start at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, January 6, 2011. The reading is expected to take between one and two hours and is open to all Members of Congress who are interested in participating. Members will read the Constitution and amendments on a first come first serve basis.

“One of the resounding themes I have heard from my constituents is that Congress should adhere to the Constitution and the finite list of powers it granted to the federal government,” said Congressman Goodlatte. “The Constitution has never been read aloud on the floor of the House of Representatives. This historic and symbolic reading is long overdue and shows that the new majority in the House truly is dedicated to our Constitution and the principles for which it stands. As the written expression of the consent the American people gave to their government – a consent with restrictions and boundaries – the public reading of the Constitution will set the tone for the 112th Congress.”

Goodlatte is a senior Member of the House Judiciary Committee, which has jurisdiction over Constitutional amendments and other issues pertaining to the U.S. Constitution.

Anyone interested in viewing this historic event should tune into C-SPAN at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, January 6th or watch it online at http://www.c-span.org/Live-Video/C-SPAN/.

Restoring integrity to our judicial system

By Congressman Bob Goodlatte (R)

Virginia - 6th Congressional District

It is a rare occasion when the U.S. Congress impeaches a federal judge and removes the accused from the bench.  Indeed, only 8 federal judges have been removed from office in our nation’s history.  However, when evidence emerges that an individual is abusing his judicial office for his own advantage, the integrity of the judicial system becomes compromised, and the Congress has the duty to investigate the matter and take the appropriate actions to end the abuse and restore confidence in the judicial system.

As the Ranking Member of the House Task Force on Judicial Impeachment I served as one of the two lead prosecutors in the impeachment trial of Judge G. Thomas Porteous, Jr., of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana.  Earlier this week I presented closing arguments before the U.S. Senate in the Porteous case, which was the first Senate impeachment trial of a federal judge since 1989.  This was the culmination of months worth of work including the initial investigatory phase, four evidentiary hearings, the presentation of the articles of impeachment by the House Task Force on Judicial Impeachment to the House Judiciary Committee, a vote by the House Judiciary Committee, a unanimous vote for impeachment by the House of Representatives, and the presentation of the articles of impeachment before the Senate Impeachment Trial Committee. 

Our case was based on four articles of impeachment, which charged Judge Porteous with intentionally making materially false statements and representations under penalty of perjury, engaging in a corrupt kickback scheme, soliciting and accepting unlawful gifts, deliberately violating court orders and intentionally misleading the Senate during his confirmation proceedings.

Specifically, the four articles of impeachment charged that while on the federal bench, Judge Porteous refused to withdraw as the judge from a case when he had previously engaged in a corrupt kickback scheme with the attorneys representing one of the parties; that he later took thousands of dollars in cash from those same attorneys while the case was pending; that he took gifts from a bail bondsman in exchange for granting favorable bond rates for him and then improperly expunged the records of two of the bail bondsman’s employees, one after he was confirmed by the Senate to be a federal judge; that he lied to a bankruptcy court when he filed for bankruptcy and then violated a bankruptcy court order mandating that he not incur further debt; and that he made materially false statements to the U.S. Senate and FBI during his confirmation process.

Following the presentation of closing arguments the Senate found Judge Porteous guilty on all four articles of impeachment and removed the Judge from the federal bench, making him the eighth federal judge to be removed from office.   It is not a pleasant task to remove a federal judge from the bench, yet when a judge abuses his office, it becomes necessary to take the appropriate action in order to restore the confidence of the American people in the judicial system.  The Constitution gives the House of Representatives the power and responsibility to impeach federal judges and the Senate the power to remove the accused from office after a fair and impartial hearing.  These are powers that Congress utilizes only in cases involving serious allegations of misconduct.  In every step of this lengthy process, we in Congress worked in a non-partisan manner to uncover the truth in order to root out corruption and protect the integrity of our judicial system.  With the Senate’s vote to convict Judge Porteous on all four articles of impeachment it sets a new and much-needed standard of conduct of all who are entrusted with public duties.

Bob Goodlatte's August recess events

District 6 - Rep. Bob Goodlatte (R)

No townhall events are scheduled. He is hosting a Dutch Treat Luncheon in Staunton on August 10th – a reservation is necessary for this event -- and hosting a Veterans’ Service Fair in Woodstock on August 11th.

Veterans' Service Fair: Tuesday, August 11. Woodstock National Guard Armory, 451 Hoover Road, Woodstock. 10:00 am. Designed to enroll vets in VA healthcare system.

From the Communications Director: "I do not have any town hall meetings set at this point. Instead he is hosting various events throughout the district. Folks should always feel free to call or write the Congressman. Our district reps host open door meetings every month throughout the district. A complete listing is available on our website."

Washington, DC Office
(202) 225-5431

Harrisonburg Office
(540) 432-2391

Lynchburg Office
(434) 845-8306

Roanoke Office
(540) 857-2672

Staunton Office
(540) 885-3861

Michael Steele's visit in Staunton today

"It's not over until the last vote is counted."

"Re-elect him!" Michael Steel said of Bob Goodlatte.

Peggy Huffman talks with Michael Steele.






"JarDog," our resident Marine, with Mr. and Mrs. Frost.


Bob Goodlatte introduced Michael Steele.

A group of SWAC area Republicans met at Rowe's Restaurant Thursday afternoon to welcome Maryland's former Lt. Governor Michael Steele as he stumped for John McCain's presidency. He was introduced by Congressman Bob Goodlatte who had to leave for another appearance in Buena Vista.

Mr. Steele relayed a story of the summer of 2007 when he saw John McCain sitting in the airport with his luggage waiting to catch a plane to another campaign stop. He had laid off half his campaign staff and was almost out of money but when asked how things were going he replied, "Great!" That optimism carried him through to win the GOP nomination for president.

After talking for 30 minutes about the need to keep Republicans in office, Mr. Steele ended by saying, "It's not over until the last vote is counted."

I was happy to see Mr. Frost, a GOP volunteer who was busy as one of the "sign guys" when I became involved nine years ago. Mr. Frost is about to turn 91. He and his wife contributed much over the years. He was a cowboy from Montana who moved east years ago ... I enjoyed hearing his stories over the years and miss him now that poor health has limited his involvement. He was all smiles as usual ... and I asked to get a photo of him, Mrs. Frost, and "Jar Dog."

Jar Dog is in the Marine Reserve, someone I met during the Bush 2000 campaign and who has been on my email list all these years. It was great to see him ... one of our heroes who has served in Iraq and who protects our freedoms and keeps us safe.

"It's not over until the last vote is counted."

Photos by SWAC Girl

Andre Viette hosts Newt Gingrich at Bob Goodlatte fundraiser

Staunton's African-American Festival

Saturday and Sunday the annual African-American Festival will be held in Gypsy Hill Park in Staunton. This is always a popular festival and the weather looks to be good ... high in 70s and clear. Lots of crafts, food, and entertainment will greet you at this free event.

The local Republicans will be there as they are each year so you can pick up campaign materials for John McCain for President, Jim Gilmore for Senate, and Bob Goodlatte for Congress. Volunteers will be manning the booth so stop in and say hello and pick up your signs and bumper stickers.

If you can't make the festival, drop by Republican Headquarters which is located at 123 Greenville Avenue across the street from Mill Street Grill. It will be open Saturday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Signs and bumper stickers can be picked up there, and you can sign up to volunteer for manning headquarters, phone banking, or door-to-door canvassing.

Only six weeks to go until Election Day!

U.S. Congress honors Rev. Jerry Falwell today....

A Republican "Special Order" will be hosted this afternoon on the House floor by Congressman Bob Goodlatte when he and other members will remember Rev. Jerry Falwell. It will be carried live on C-SPAN as early as 5:30 or as late as 7:30 p.m.

In addition to Congressman Goodlatte, confirmed speakers include House Republican Whip Roy Blunt, House Republican Deputy Whip Eric Cantor, Congressman Virgil Goode, Congressman Randy Forbes, and Marilyn Musgrave.